STEAMING ALL THE WAY

With Christmas around the corner, we know your attention will be turned to trees, tinsel and Christmas lists in no time. If you’re keen on your kids having a little education thrown in there’s a host of STEM/ STEAM-inspired toys and gifts on offer. Ahrani Logan has selected her favourites.

XTRONAUT, THE GAME OF SOLAR SYSTEM EXPLORATION

For 2-4 Players Age 7+
Xtronaut, released in September 2016 to coincide with the launch of NASA’s inaugural asteroid mission OSIRIS-REx To Bennu And Back, is the first board game grounded in actual NASA missions. The mission will only be complete when the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft brings a sample of the Bennu asteroid back to Earth in–wait for it–seven years! In the meantime, the asteroid mission’s lead scientist Professor Dante Lauretta has created Xtronaut to keep us busy on Earth whilst we wait. The game’s attention to detail and scientific accuracy are thanks to him and his highly experienced team. Dante told CITY KIDS that he hopes this game will enthuse and inspire children (and parents, too!) to delve more into space and STEM subjects.

Amazon price: £51 (variable)

VIEWMASTER VIRTUAL REALITY (VR) PACK

Age 8+
Virtual reality has really taken off in 2016 and this toy, released earlier this year, offers a great entry point for kids. For those of you who remember your old Viewmaster, be ready to upgrade! Using a smart phone app, the new Viewmaster offers a kid-friendly VR experience with 360-degree immersion into a range of scenarios through the Viewmaster VR “Experience Packs,” which include Wildlife, Destinations, and Space. Although Viewmaster VR works with most phones, check your phone’s compatibility first. Experience Packs need to be purchased separately. A delightful upgrade from Google Cardboard VR. Happy immersion!

OIDROIDS

Age 5+
These cards are perfect stocking fillers: they will distract your little ones on Christmas morning whilst you get the lunch on, or provide for a little relaxing quality time after lunch over a box of Quality Street. The robots, made of high-quality, pre-cut cardboard with colourful designs by graphic designer Jonathan Klemenze, will satisfy the artistic makers in your family. No cutting or sticking required. Winner of Brand Licensing Europe 2015 License This! Competition.

Amazon price: £5.25 for a pack of 15

BBC MICRO:BIT

Age 3+
Inspiring a new generation of coders, the BBC released the micro:bit first into schools, and then from July, to the general public. Sized at 4×5 cm, it’s a fun and easy-to-use pocket-sized computer. Kids can create games, animations, and scrolling stories using this nifty programmable piece of kit. Bluetooth Smart technology means you can connect your micro:bit to other devices. USB and battery power box need to be purchased separately.

Amazon price: £14.80 (variable) RRP £14.97

HAPE DISCOVERY SPACESHIP AND LIFT OFF ROCKET

Age 3+
Not your average doll’s house, this toy is designed to look like a real space shuttle. It even contains a treadmill for budding astronauts who want to recreate Tim Peake’s London Marathon in space! With 37 birch wood pieces, it requires some easy assembly, which you might want to do ahead of Christmas morning so your child can take off immediately!

Amazon price: £78.99 (variable) RRP £104.99
Also available at the Science Museum